RE: mk17 starting problems
If your fuels good as you say it is at a 1/3 of each and it has compression it has to go.
Put a big propeller on it like a 9 X 4 or 6 for good flywheel effect, bolt the motor down tight to a solid bench, prime as suggested into the exhaust, have the needle opened 2 or 3 turns, turn it over slowly twice then hit it hard and it really must run. Increase compression and adjust needle as required.
You might need to draw the fuel from the tank to the engine by holding your finger over the carb. and turning the engine over slowly, but don't flood it like it sounds you may have earlier on. Good luck.